Red Flags When Apartment Hunting

Before You Sign

Landlord won't let you visit the unit in person — "just sign remotely" is a scam tell

Pressure to sign today with a "someone else is very interested" story

No written lease or a lease that is suspiciously short on details

Utilities "included" with no cap — means they will raise rent to compensate

During the Viewing

Freshly painted over everything — often hides water damage, mould, or cracks

Droppings near baseboards, sticky traps, or small holes in walls — pest evidence

Water stains on ceilings that have been painted over but are still slightly discoloured

Windows that don't open or locks that don't work — fire safety issue

Viewing only scheduled during weekday afternoons when noisy neighbours are at work

Strong air freshener or scented candles lit during showing — masking smells